Bangalore, July 16, 2023 - Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed an agreement to jointly develop advanced helicopter engines for the Indian armed forces. The agreement, which is worth a total of $1 billion, will allow India to develop its own advanced helicopter engines.
The partnership will see HAL and Safran work together on the design, development, certification, production, sale, and support of helicopter engines. The initial focus will be on the Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
The IMRH is a 13-ton helicopter that is being developed by HAL for the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy. The DBMRH is a naval version of the IMRH that is being developed for the Indian Navy.
The agreement between HAL and Safran is a significant step forward in India's efforts to develop its own advanced defense capabilities. It will help to ensure that the Indian armed forces have access to the latest and most advanced helicopter engines.
The agreement was signed by Mr. R. Madhavan, CMD, HAL, and Mr. Franck Saudo, CEO, Safran Helicopter Engines. The signing ceremony was attended by Mr. Shri C. B. Ananthakrishnan, CMD, HAL, and Mr. Olivier Andriès, CEO, Safran.
In a statement, Mr. Madhavan said that the agreement "is a major milestone in HAL's efforts to develop indigenous helicopter engines." He said that the partnership with Safran "will help us to build world-class helicopter engines that meet the requirements of the Indian armed forces."
Mr. Saudo said that the agreement "is a key part of Safran's strategy to expand our presence in India." He said that the partnership with HAL "will help us to meet the growing demand for helicopter engines in India."
The agreement between HAL and Safran is a significant boost to India's defense capabilities. It will help to ensure that the Indian armed forces have access to the latest and most advanced helicopter engines. The partnership is also a sign of the growing cooperation between India and France in the defense sector.